2. amps-preamps
  3. 134997-154

So many integrated options -- McIntosh 8900, Levinson 585, Lyngdorf 2170, Anthem STR,

just to name a few that I'm considering.  Here's my current situation and what I'm thinking.  I'm currently running a Denon AVR X5200, which is a top level AV receiver, but I use a very powerful Krell power amp, the FPB 400cx, to power the front L/R speakers.  It actually sounds decent, but for my two channel listening, I'm limited to the quality of the pre-amp section in the Denon.  Now, the 400cx is a class A amp, runs very hot, and weighs over 100 pounds.  So, I'm wondering if I can improve my overall sound quality by going with a high end integrated amp for my two channel listening.  I'd also be getting rid of one huge, heavy, and hot box and reducing the need for interconnect cables.

Now, all these units include a home theater bypass, so I could continue to use my Denon for my Blu-ray movies and TV watching, thereby preserving my multi-channel system.  I also use my Oppo 203 to play multi-channel SACD and DVD-Audio over HDMI into the Denon.  With one of these integrated amps, I could then connect my Oppo's digital output, my laptop pc, and my turntable, to the IA.  I would think the DAC and associated analog output stages, as well as the phono stage quality of the integrated amps would be superior to that of the Denon receiver.

As to my integrated amp options, I really like the functionality of the McIntosh 8900 in that it can truly serve as a "one box" solution because it includes a nice phono stage.  It also has the upgradeable DAC module, which has the potential to somewhat "future proof" it in case McIntosh releases an upgraded module.  200 wpc.

The ML No. 585 has the highest list price and has great reviews, although it's been out a few years.  It does not offer a modular DAC or phono input, although I could easily obtain a nice phono stage.  200wpc.

The Lyngdorf is currently very hot here on Agon and people are heaping praise on its sound quality.  Again, it has a DAC but no phono stage. Not as much power as the 8900, STR, or 585.

The Anthem STR Integrated is new and also includes MM and MC phono inputs.  200 wpc.  Includes Anthem Room Correction.

Any opinions or experience here with these options?  Thanks much.
mtrot
mtrot OP
804 posts
 
Update: After being counseled NOT to give up my Krell class A amp, I’m now considering going with a pre-amp that has home theater bypass. My original thinking was that I could pretty much fund a new integrated by selling the Krell. But if I’m going to miss the class A audio quality of the Krell, well maybe I won’t go that route.

Specifically, I’m looking at the new Anthem STR pre-amp, which includes DAC, phono input, and home theater bypass, and looks to me like it will do everything that I want. That would allow me to use XLR connections to my Krell. Regarding McIntosh, their pre-amps don’t seem to be as versatile.

@ uberwaltz,

Yes, I’m looking for hands-on experiences.

Edit:  Actually, the McIntosh C47 pre-amp is more versatile than I thought, as it does offer home theater bypass.  And it's actually a bit cheaper retail price than the Anthem STR. 
tomic601's avatar
tomic601
13,172 posts
 
mac preamp with tone controls.....
listening to my 1965 MX-110 Z as we speak....
Charlie Haydens bass is singing...

seriously the EQ on a Mac preamp can come in handy....

i will say an Ayre or Pass Integrated should at least be on your listen to list IMO..

and the 85 wpc VTL is super sweet if ya like valves...er tubes....


audiotroy's avatar
audiotroy
3,916 posts
 
The Anthem Str preamp has one gigantic advantage over the Mac which is room correction. The sound of a system can dramatically improve by using ARC.

Also the preamp is software upgradable and is highly configurable the STR also has a built in phono stage.

We have not yet tested the STR preamp vs any other preamps however the sound with the STR power amp is really impressive. and you may want to eventually replace your Krell amp with the Anthem. 

Dave and Troy
Audio Doctor NJ
uberwaltz's avatar
uberwaltz
13,381 posts
 
I would have to agree with audiotroy here, the room correction should be very decisive unless you have already a perfect room.
Now for one year I actually had a Mac c48 driving BAT VK600SE.
I cannot imagine the c47 is sonically much different.
What can I say?
Typical Mac house sound, somewhat warm, inoffensive. 
Some like it, a lot of love for Mac here for sure.
It was not for me but again my room may have been the biggest issue.
The c48 was extremely versatile though, great setup options and the eq was useful but still no full room correction.
johndoe21ro
72 posts
 
Uberwaltz, why did u change the BAT VK-600SE? What did you like about it? What did you dislike with the BAT amp? What’s better with Lyngdorf? Thanks! :)
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